PERINEOPLASTY

Pros

• Perineoplasty is considered a very safe procedure, with low complication rates.
• It’s an outpatient procedure, so you’ll be able to go home the same day. 
• By addressing vaginal looseness, it can also improve sexual sensation for you and your partner.
• RealSelf members who say perineoplasty was “Worth It” report that it increased their sexual satisfaction, confidence, and control of their bowels. Many of them even describe their results as “amazing.” 

Cons

• You’ll need about a week of downtime after your surgery, with swelling and discomfort. 
• You’ll have to avoid sexual activity for six to eight weeks after your surgery.
• Full recovery can take up to three months. 
• Perineoplasty can’t be performed on women with pelvic organ prolapse, such as rectocele or cystocele; obstructed defecation; or urinary or anal incontinence. It's also not recommended for those looking to address dyspareunia, or pain during intercourse due to tight vaginal muscles.

• Average Cost:
• $4,717

• Range:
• $1,500 - $8,000

Your perineoplasty cost will depend on the experience level of your surgeon, their practice location, whether you have local or general anesthesia (which is more expensive), and who administers it.

The perineoplasty photos in our gallery have been shared by the provider who performed the procedure, with the patient's consent.

The surgery itself is done under either general or local anesthesia with IV sedation. Using a laser or scalpel, your surgeon will make a V-shaped incision in the vaginal mucosa on the back of the vaginal wall, cutting from the vaginal entryway (introitus) through to the perineum, just above the anal opening.

They will suture the perineal body back together, tightening the levator muscles and covering them with fascia. Then they'll remove any excess skin and scar tissue before suturing the incision closed in a way that will look as natural as possible. 

Many surgeons use stitches that dissolve on their own within the first week or two. If yours doesn't, your stitches will be removed at a follow-up appointment about a week after your procedure.

The initial perineoplasty recovery period is a few days to a week, depending on whether your procedure was combined with a vaginoplasty. If your job involves heavy lifting or above-average physical activity, you may need to take two weeks off, to help you heal without injury. 

You should be fully recovered from a perineoplasty within three months.

You’ll have some bruising and swelling for up to two weeks, though most discomfort should subside within a week. Your doctor will likely prescribe pain medication to help keep you comfortable.

Avoid any penetration of the vagina, including tampons or sexual intercourse, for six to eight weeks afterward. 

You’ll also need to avoid exercise that puts pressure on the surgical site. Most patients undergo physical therapy to strengthen their pelvic floor, after an initial healing period.

Your surgeon will give you perineoplasty aftercare instructions that should help mitigate potential complications—which include bleeding, infection of the incision, painful intercourse (which should become more comfortable over time), vaginal dryness, constipation, and vaginal and perineal tightness. 

They will also recommend a gentle cleanser, to help reduce the risk of infection. Steer clear of irritating chemicals or heavily scented soaps as you heal.

If it's performed as medically necessary reconstructive surgery, your health insurance plan may cover part or all of your procedure. Talk with your doctor and insurance provider about whether your case would qualify. 

Cosmetic surgery is not covered by insurance.